5 Off-the-beaten-path Adventure Resorts in India

If adventure runs in your blood, you’ll forever be on a lookout for destinations you can take off to for a thrilling break. With Manali, Rishikesh, Ladakh, Andamans and the likes checked off your list, it’s the right time for you to explore newer destinations offering unique adventure opportunities. Here’s our list of 5 adrenaline-arousing activities at spots across the country to instantly woo you. While there, don’t miss staying at our recommended distinctive luxury hotels where adventure and extravagance go hand in hand!

Adventure Highlight: Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady​

Thekkady in Kerala is the heart of coffee and spice country. A haven of lush green, the region is truly representative of the marvels of ‘God’s Own Country’. Thekkady is also where the Periyar National Park is located. While spotting prolific wildlife residents like elephants and deer here on a jeep safari is one way to do it, a more adventurous way is bamboo rafting on the Periyar River that meanders through the forested habitat under the guidance of an armed forest guard and experienced guides.

Stay at: Kofiland Resort

Within the wooded wondrous beauty of Thekkady stands Kofiland, an eco-friendly resort that brings the promise of luxury. Seamlessly blending in to its scenic surroundings, a lake created by two adjacent hills is the visual draw here. The cottages and villas at Kofiland are finely furnished and feature attached private balconies. Resort amenities include Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, outdoor amphitheatre and activities and games. Wellness treatments at the Ayurveda spa are the ideal treat after a day spent outdoors as is a meal comprising regional cuisine at the resort’s multi-cuisine restaurant.

Book Your Stay at Kofiland Resort, Thekkady!

Adventure Highlight: Flyboarding in Goa

Beyond its beaches that precede Goa’s reputation of being the ultimate sun, sand and surf destination in the country, there’s a new wave of adventure seekers flocking here. While banana boat rides, parasailing and jet skiing remain the staple watersports to be found on the shores from North to South, the latest excitement generator is flyboarding. Be jetted up to a height of nine metres by a thrust of water attached to a jetpack. Literally fly above the water and once you master your balance, do air flips and twirls to really impress the audience.

Stay at: Taj Exotica

After you’ve had your thrills, relax and rejuvenate within the luxurious confines of Taj Exotica. Spanning 22 hectares of tropical bliss overlooking the Arabian Sea in Benaulim, the five star resort offers plush accommodation that boast of poshest interiors and amenities to match. Lounge around the meandering hotel pool with a cocktail in hand or enjoy a nine-hole round of golf. Enjoy the finest cuisines at the hotel’s multiple restaurants that serve delectable regional and international food including Goan, Chinese and Mediterranean and recharge at the award-winning Jiva Spa during your lavish stay at Taj Exotica.

Book Your Stay at Taj Extica Goa!

Adventure Highlight: Hot Air Ballooning in Alwar

Take to the skies in Neemrana in Alwar district in royal Rajasthan. With the Aravalli Hills as a backdrop, hot air ballooning is a big draw here. Float over the countryside and get a bird’s eye view of the region in all its glory. From up above, spot palaces and forts as well as temples that tell tales of a regal past.

Stay at: Neemrana Fort Palace

The Neemrana Fort Palace is an oasis in the desert that dates back to the 15th century. A luxury boutique hotel, its magnificent architecture boasts of seven palace wings built over 14 layers tiered into a hill across two and a half hectares of gardens. A real gem, the spacious rooms and suites are bedecked with features like stately carved armoires, four-poster beds and stained glass windows. Neemrana Fort Palace lives up to its impressive and stately façade with amenities befitting of royalty that include hanging gardens, two swimming pools, an Ayurveda spa and an amphitheatre.

Book Your Stay at Neemrana Fort Palace, Alwar!

Adventure Highlight: Mountain Biking in Shimla

Shimla stands tall and proud at an altitude of 2,205 metres above sea level in Himachal Pradesh. A popular hill station amongst those looking to escape the scorching heat of the planes, Shimla and its surrounds of pine and oak forests beckon adventurers all through the year. Explore the dense foliage by mountain biking through the picturesque terrain. Encounter quaint panoramas complete with flowing streams and waterfalls dwarfed by snow-capped peaks.

Stay at: Hotel Marina

After considerable kilometres of mountain biking, give those aches and pains much relief at Hotel Marina, a boutique property that offers healing for the body and soul. With spectacular views of the mountains, the 42 rooms and suites facilitate the best vantage points of the outdoors as you enjoy the splendid comforts of your dwellings. Don’t miss tickling your taste buds here at the coffee shop, multi-cuisine restaurant and a terrace lounge.

Book Your Stay at Hotel Marina!

Adventure Highlight: Jeep Safaris & Trekking in Darjeeling

A gem of the Himalayas, this hill hamlet offers many opportunities for adventurers to push their limits to experience unparalleled thrills in the mountains. Two great escapades to be had in Darjeeling come by way of jeep safaris and trekking. While the former takes you on a journey of exploration on four wheels, the latter is dependent on how well your two feet hold up. Irrespective, what they both present are stunning views of monasteries and mountains, waterfalls and valleys.

Stay at: Mayfair Hill Resort

An adventure holiday in Darjeeling is enhanced further by staying at Mayfair Darjeeling, a hill resort that encompasses the best of everything in the region. Set amidst a sea of green, the rooms and suites offer panoramic mountain vistas. Old world charm is a constant throughout the property and reflections can be seen in the wood fireplaces and English-style interiors of the resort. The sprawling lawns are ideal to enjoy the sunshine and enjoy a cup of tea amidst mountainous surroundings. Savour the flavours of Darjeeling and pan India at the restaurants, Tiffany and Magnolia. For something more traditional, step in to the Douglhas Bar—an old fashioned English pub setting that takes you back in time.

Book Your Stay at Mayfair Hill Resort, Darjeeling!